Elsie, Emma, and Marjorie

1921

Through the generosity of Mrs. Charles C. Bovey, seven lithographs by George Bellows have been added to the group by which Bellows is already represented in the permanent collection. The subjects included in Mrs. Bovey’s gift are Evening Snow,Three Girls,Emma,Legs of the Sea,Introducing Georges Carpentier,Irish Fair, and In the Park.Bellows’ range and vigorous personality are well expressed in this group. His interest in tone, and the fine contrasts he creates; his treatment of line and light; and his arrangements, both in single figure and more complex subjects, show him to have been an expert craftsman. He has been called an artist’s artist, and there is no doubt that he possesses those qualities that would appeal especially to his fellow artists, as well as an outlook that arrests the interest of a broader group.In the content of his lithographs Bellows reveals a primary interest in human beings, particularly in those with whom he came in contact day by day. He was a keen observer, and a realistic interpreter of what he saw. Occasionally, as in Evening Snow, he creates a dreamy and poetic mood. At other times, in pictures of the American scene such as are represented in this group by Legs of the Sea, a strong element of satire enters his work.It is as an illustrator of the American scene that he is principally known, but his gift for portraiture was also notable. In the long list of portraits of his family and friends, he shows himself to have been at once penetrating and sympathetic. Such groups as that illustrated on page 109 possess an intimate charm that conveys clearly Bellows’ relationship to his sitters, and his pleasure in portraying them.Whatever his subject, Bellows was simple and direct in the statement of his ideas. As one of the foremost native lithographers, his work forms an important part of the American collection of prints.Referenced Work of Art

Three Girls. A portrait group by the American artist George Bellows
One of seven lithographs presented by Mrs. Charles C. Bovey